Some of your stomach muscles (rectus abdominus) run from the bottom of your rib cage to your pubic bone. The muscles are connected by a band of connective tissue called the Linea alba.
It is completely normal for this band and muscles to stretch during pregnancy and by the end of pregnancy you may notice a separation or gap between the muscles.
The amount of separation can vary from person to person and usually improves by the time your baby is 8-12 weeks old.
You may have diastasis rectus abdominus, also known as divarication, if after 8-12 weeks you still have:
a sensation of a gap between your stomach muscles, which is larger than 2cm
a visible bulge
discomfort or pain.
If this is the case, you may need further support to get strong again and can be referred to Pelvic Health Physiotherapy by your healthcare professional.
